Build for the future

Many sources are predicting production from the Norwegian shelf for another hundred years. How does one plan for such a perspective? One thing is certain. It must come at a cost.

Norway has a formidable oil history. It is a story thatonly the very few could begin to decipher the shape of 50-60 years ago. The very edifice of Norwegian society is moulded from a mixture of political skill, a forward-looking civil service, stubbornness, an element of luck, and a society founded on social democratic principles. The goal from the outset was to share the
wealth of the shelf with the people.

We at Havtil do not engage in politics. We are a government agency that works within safety, as well as security, emergency preparedness and the working environment. Our expertise lies in ensuring that people get home from work safely, and in preventing economic losses and unacceptable environmental consequences from operations on the Norwegian shelf.

Main issue 2026 - Investment in the Norwegian continental shelf must come at a cost

Havtil’s main theme for 2026, Investment in the NCS mustcome at a cost, is designed tofacilitate important discussions and decisions. The hourglass represents a metaphor and a visual element.

Many are looking to Norway specifically to continue its oil and gas production, because few other countries can do so with a lower carbon footprint.

Costs and benefits 

The creation of Norway as a successful oil and gas nation has come at a substantial cost - both in the form of enormous financial investments and in the significant loss of human life and health. The latter is unacceptable.

On the other hand, the benefits have been huge, not only for individual companies but also for society as a whole. We have built a welfare state, and Norway has amassed a staggering fortune for the benefit of future generations.

We now stand at a crossroads. The climate issue stands at the forefront of public debate, and the planet’s ailing health weighs heavily on most of us. 

The pressure is on to accelerate the development of green energy. At the same time, Norway is a key supplier of gas to a Europe marred by crisis and war.

Many are looking to Norway specifically to continue its oil and gas production, because few other countries can do so with a lower carbon footprint.

Based on analyses of global energy needs for the foreseeable future, it is claimed that the Norwegian shelf will - or should - be in operation for another 100 years. At least for many decades to come.

If Norway is to succeed as an energy nation for another 100 years, there is no place for developments based on B-grade solutions.

Solid framework

So what do we do?

We leave politics in the hands of others. At Havtil, we are concerned with safety, and with the quality, wisdom and perspectives which must form the basis for new developments on the shelf, both within oil and gas and within other forms of energy.

Our main issue for 2026 leaves no doubt as to our position when we state: Investment in the Norwegian continental shelf must come at a cost.

The background for the choice of topic is as follows: The emphasis on quality has been crucial to the high safety standards, trust and reliability as an energy supplier which Norway enjoys today. Over the past 50 years, we have built and developed a robust infrastructure based on solid field developments and modifications, investment in quality technology, and targeted maintenance. This has led to the authorities’ ability to grant significant lifespan extensions within petroleum operations.

The goal is to operate equally safely and reliably in the years to come, including within new energy industries on the shelf. To succeed, companies must continue to invest in robust solutions and top-tier technology. They must prioritise maintenance of existing equipment and infrastructure - and ensure proper staffing and expertise. Protection against deliberate attacks must garner increased focus.

And we wish to emphasize strongly: Havtil will work purposefully on these complex challenges related to safety and security. We expect the same from the companies. It is a leadership responsibility. And the dividends will follow.

Challenging

Investment in the Norwegian continental shelf must come at a cost. The statement will provoke some, and delight others. Hopefully, it will also contribute to fundamental debates in companies, among employees and leaders, in organisations, among politicians and among the general public.

If we are to plan for a long-term perspective on the Norwegian shelf – coupled with the Government’s continued commitment to Norway’s position as a world leader in health, safety and the environment – it will come at a cost. More specifically: Norway will not succeed as an energy nation for another 100 years if new developments are based on B-grade solutions.

This is the professional opinion of the Havtil government agency. 

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